How Do You Fashion

Feb 1 Style Voices: Audree Lopez of Simply Audree Kate

Figuring out your personal style can be quite a challenge in this age of fast fashion, where trends are in one day and out the next. That’s why we caught up with Arizona native, Audree Lopez of Simply Audree Kate. She's an NYC-based stylist and lifestyle blogger who navigates the current fashion landscape better than anyone else—she has mastered the art of staying true to her unique West-Coast-meets-East-Coast style, while somehow always being on-trend. That combo is magic in our book. In this interview she opens up about her obsession with silver jewelry, her best getting-dressed style hack, and the lipstick colors she can't live without. But the one thing she wouldn't give up? The name of the hometown vintage store where she has scored some of her best finds. Sorry, dear reader, we tried. Sigh.

Name? Age? Audree Lopez, 24

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? Do you think that has affected your style? I live in New York City but I grew up in Prescott, AZ. I have always had a touch of southwest in my look—I mean, I love silver jewelry, bold colors and prints, and my favorite color is turquoise, so yeah Arizona has definitely played a role in personal style!

What do you do and how does your work affect the way you dress? I'm a fashion stylist, a fashion/lifestyle blogger, and I currently do freelance PR for a large retail company. I have always been an eclectic dresser, never really fitting into one style category, but I have definitely noticed a shift since moving to NYC. On a day-to-day basis I now seek comfort and functionality, but I always want to look chic. My days can get crazy—whether I'm running around on set, hopping from event to event, or shooting for my blog—so I have learned to wear things that can get me through whatever comes my way. But no matter what, I always stay on-brand to who I am.

Photographed by Sam Kelly

Do you have any getting-dressed secrets? I always try to pick out a "mock" outfit the night before. I start with one piece I know I want to wear (like a specific shoe, bag, or shirt) and then I let my creativity go from there. Sometimes I change things around in the morning, or add different accessories, but it saves me so much time and sanity to have somewhat of a game plan in my morning routine.

Is there something you wear that gets you compliments no matter how many times you wear it? Why do you think that is? People typically point out my jewelry, probably because I wear a lot of it! Jewelry has become a staple in my personal style the past few years and I would definitely consider myself a maximalist. I have a huge collection of vintage and new pieces, and each day I mix and match new combinations. I often wear too many rings! When I'm not wearing my vintage pieces I rely on Jennifer Fisher and BaubleBar. Jennifer Fisher is a bit of a splurge but I love the quality and simplicity of her pieces. BaubleBar is super fun and trendy, and of course really well-priced.

Where is your favorite place to shop? I am a huge vintage shopper! I started thrifting with my parents when I was really little, and I believe that has played a role in developing my personal style. I just love the adventure and creativity that comes with vintage shopping. The coolest store I have ever visited is a really small, unknown thrift store in my hometown. I have found some of my favorite items there, from designer bags, to retro blazers, and my go-to jewelry pieces, but I'm keeping it a secret. Sorry! I do a lot of online shopping too, and my go-to sites are Lulu's, Zara, and The Real Real.

Where do you get style inspiration? I get inspired by the New Yorkers all around me like co-workers and people walking down the street. I also closely follow sites like Vogue, Refinery29, Who What Wear, and Man Repeller for inspiration and ideas.

What's your signature look? My signature outfit is a leather or denim jacket, vintage graphic tee, lots of jewelry, and a bold lip. I would describe my personal style as 'Your grandmother's floral couch meets a rock concert'—it's slightly feminine with and edgy twist, topped off with a statement item.

Do you have any tips for looking stylish and staying warm this season? Focus on statement outerwear! Find a fun coat that will keep you warm, layer on some colorful scarves, and wear a pair of statement boots. I definitely believe you don't have to sacrifice warmth for fashion.

You are a self-proclaimed jewelry addict. What's your secret to piling on the jewels without it looking crazy? My tip for wearing multiple accessories is to focus on one main area. I typically wear a lot of rings and bracelets, so my focus would be my arms and hands. If you want to wear a huge statment necklace, just keep your bracelets and earrings a little more simple. The key is to find some balance by either wearing all the same color metal or focusing on one area of your body. I tend to keep my jewelry to all silver so when I'm stacking on the pieces, they all blend together without looking chaotic.

What trend are you most looking forward to trying come spring? I'm excited for all-over prints! I know florals will be huge again this spring, but I'm looking forward to wearing stripes and graphic mirco prints, too. I think my readers will be excited to see print mixing from me, and how to make a bold print act as a neutral in their spring wardrobe.

We all know beauty goes hand in hand with fashion...what is your no-fail 5-minute beauty routine? My routine starts with dry shampoo to make my hair more lively. I apply concealer and blush to brighten my face, then I fill in my brows and use mascara. To top it off I throw on a bold lipstick like MAC Rebel (perfect for a vampy winter look) or Chanel Rogue Coco Shine in Boy (when I want the perfect nude lip). This makes it look like I'm pulled-together even though in reality I got ready in 3 minutes in between meetings.

Want to learn more about Audree and keep up with her adventures in NYC? Check out her blog here or follow her on Instagram @simplyaudreekate. And a special thanks to Nikitha Lokareddy, a HDYF intern who pitched Audree for this story!